200 miles |
The testing of the Conversion is proceeding and after 200 miles the bicycle is performing perfectly. The riding is becoming normalized and very comfortable. The seat adjustment fine tuning continues as I try to find that perfect fit. I think the seat adjustment may give a bit. I have had to adjust it 'upward' a couple of times and I think it might creep downward a bit over time. I may have to tighten the collar more to hold it firmly in place.
With the new chain, the gear changes have become much more exact. The muscle memory of the gear changes with and power level are becoming more automatic ... without really thinking about it. It is interesting how you become one with the bike the more you ride it.
The Garmin 530 and the Garmin Varia Radar are working great on the bike. The Varia Radar / tail light flasher is attached to the rear rack. The height of the Varia seems to be fine and within the specifications.
Safety when mounting, dismounting and stopping was the primary reason the RANS Fusion Crank forward was selected for riding. After 200 miles thus far, I can report that it does seem safer. Being able to put both feet on the ground while seated feels safer and much easier on the body. This is a great feature for older riders. While the start off on the crank forward bicycle seem a little tricky, you get better at it with time. Having a thumb throttle to assist on 'take-offs' is an extremely good option. It make for smoother, straighter and safer starts...especially on hills.
The grocery runs with the RANS have been great. The RANS Fusion did not seem too large for the grocery store bicycle rack. The load distribution on the rear rack/panniers worked fine. The bicycle seemed very stable with a low center of gravity. The Bafang BBS02 made the hill climbs with the load with no issue.
Muscles: (note... the crank forward bicycle does use different body muscles. Coming from a traditional bike where your muscles are conditioned, you will experience some new sore leg, arm and back muscles when riding. The riding position lets you power into hills pulling back on the handlebar while pushing with your legs. A perfectly natural feeling (kind of like rowing machine). Personally I think it is a better workout for the body ... but expect a little soreness! After 200 miles, I am still feeling it a little.